System and method for inductively communicating data

Abstract

A system for inductively communicating signals in a magnetic resonance imaging system is presented. The system in one embodiment includes a first array of primary coils disposed on a patient cradle of the imaging system, and configured to acquire data from a patient positioned on the patient cradle. Additionally, the system includes a second array of secondary coils disposed under the patient cradle, wherein a number of secondary coils is less than or equal to the number of primary coils, wherein the first array of primary coils is configured to inductively communicate the acquired data to the second array of secondary coils.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to communication of signals, and more particularly to the inductive communication of signals in an imaging system.[0002]In just a few decades, the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners has grown tremendously. MRI scans are being increasingly used to aid in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, torn ligaments, tendonitis, cancer, strokes, and the like. As will be appreciated, MRI is a noninvasive medical test that aids physicians in the diagnoses and treatment of various medical conditions. The enhanced contrast that an MRI scan provides between the different soft tissues of the body allows physicians to better evaluate the various parts of the body and determine the presence of certain diseases that may not be assessed adequately with other imaging methods such as X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT).[0003]An MRI system typically includes one or more coils to generate the magnetic field. A...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]In accordance with aspects of the present technique, a system for inductively communicating signals in a magnetic resonance imaging system is presented. The system includes a first array of primary coils disposed on a patient cradle of the imaging system, and configured to acquire data from a patient positioned on the patient cra

Problems solved by technology

These MRI receiver coil arrays typically entail use of bulky cables.

Use of these bulky cables increases the difficulty in situating the receiver coils over the patient before the scanning procedure.

Unfortunately, this increase in the number of receiver channels has further exacerbated the problem with a corresponding increase in the number of bulky cables.

However, these signal conversions require placement of additional circuits on the coils, which can substantially increase the amount of power required by the coils, and lead to increased heat generation on the coils.

The additional circuitry can also add to the weight and bulk of the coil arrays, and can potentially interfere with the radiofrequency (RF) fields being detected by the coils.

Although these methods reduce the number of coils and associated hardware, these methods result in significant loss in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).

However, the relatively large size of the coupling elements and the limited space at the side of the cradle limit the versatility of this approach, thereby making it hard to use these techniques with large arrays.

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